The
Kingdom.
of
Christ
kiJ
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON
QUARTERLY
No. 106
MOUNTAIN VIEW, CAL., OCTOBER, 1921.
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PACIFIC PRESS PII73LISIIING ASSOCIATION
A Corporation of S. D. A.
Senior
Division,
Fourth
Quarter,
1921
Thirteenth Sabbath Offering
CENTRAL AND WEST CHINA
December
31, 1921
IN ORDER TO GET THE
MOST GOOD
From the Study of Your
Sabbath School
Lessons
this quarter, you should read "Prophets and Kings,"
by Mrs. E. G. White. The "Seed Thoughts" at the be-
ginning of the lessons will mean more to you if you
read the entire chapters from which they are taken.
The book abounds in great character studies—
Solomon the wise; Jeroboam, the man of policy; the,
mighty Elijah; Elisha the prophet; Ahaz, Hezekiah,
Nebuchadnezzar, Daniel, Jeremiah, and others. Be-
yond them all rises Christ, the only-begotten of God,
in whom all types of sacrifice, righteousness, and
peace find eternal fulfillment.
The object of this volume is to point out the moral
lessons to be learned from Israel's experiences.
If you do not have a copy in your library, send an
order to your tract society at once.
Cloth binding
$2.00
Limp leather
3.00
(Higher in Canada)
Pacific Press Publishing Association
Mountain View, California
THE KINGDOM OF CHRIST
Lesson 1—Christ and the Kingdom
OCTOBER 1, 1921
Daily Study Outline
1.
Study synopsis, paragraphs 4. Questions 7-12: note 2.
1, 2, looking up texts.
5. Questions 13-15.
2.
Study synopsis, paragraphs 6. Questions 19-24. '
3, 4, looking up texts.
7. Review synopsis; study the
3.
Questions 1-6; note 1.
notes.
Synopsis
SEED THOUGHT: "The very title 'Christ' or 'Messiah' sug-
gests kingship. . . . Admission into the kingdom or exclusion
from it depends upon men's attitude toward
Him."—"The
International Standard Biblical Encyclopedia," page 1802.
1.
By being created in the image of God, Adam, the rep-
resentative of the human family, was invested with the royal
dignity to such an extent that he was able to exercise dominion
over the earth. Gen. 1: 26. His crown was not a material
one composed of precious metals and gems, but the glory of
the divine nature. Ps. 8: 4, 5. When by deliberate choice he
allied himself with the will of Satan, the great rebel, and thus
placed himself in opposition to the will of God, he separated
himself from God (Isa. 59: 2), and lost the divine nature
which enabled him to be a king (Rom. 3: 23). The gospel is
the good tidings of the restoration of the lost glory (1 Tim.
1: 11, A. R. V., margin), and of the divine nature (2 Peter
1: 4), and the consequent restoration of the crown (1 Peter
5: 4), and of the dominion (Dan. 7:27).
2.
Separation from God means to be "alienated from the
life of God" (Eph. 4: 17, 18), and to be accounted as dead
(Eph. 2: 1). The restoration of the dominion therefore in-
volves the restoration to fellowship with God (1 John 1: 3),
the fountain of life (Ps. 36: 9), and the giver of life (Acts
17: 25), through His Son (1 John 5: 11, 12), and so the new
birth is the primary condition of entrance into the kingdom
(John 3: 3, 5).
3.
The Son of God partook of our human nature (Rom.
8: 3), and became the second man (1 Cor. 15: 47), the last
Adam (verse 45), the head and representative of a new
humanity, through whom the life lost in the first Adam is
restored to us' (John 10: 10), and to this second man is given
the headship which was originally possessed by the first Adam
(Eph. 1: 10, A. R. V.). As the Son of man, He will receive
4
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
the kingdom, as foretold by the prophet Daniel (Dan. /: 13,
14), when He comes in His glory (Matt. 25: 31).
4. Those who abandon all hope of receiving the dominion
through their natural birth and their descent from the first
Adam (John 3: 6; Rom. 7: 18; 1 Cor. 15: 50), and are willing
to sacrifice everything else in order that they may be found in
Christ (Phil. 3: 8, 9), will overcome the world through Christ
(Phil. 4: 13; 1 John 5: 4), and will share the dominion with
Him (Rev. 3: 21), because they are one with Him (John 17:
20, 21, A. R. V.), and confess Him as their Lord (John 13:13).
Thus the dominion is restored to Christ as the Son of man,
and through Him to all who are in vital union with Him.
Questions
1.
What dignity and what high privilege were bestowed •
upon Adam, the representative man, in his creation? Gen.
1: 26.
2.
What constituted his crown? Ps. 8: 4, 5.
3.
What afterwards separated him from God? Isa. 59: 2.
4.
What did he consequently lose? Rom. 3: 23.
5.
What good tidings is brought to us in the gospel? 1
Tim. 1: 11, A. R. V., margin; 2 Peter 1: 4.
6.
What is thus restored? 1 Peter 5: 4; Dan. 7: 27:
7.
What does separation from God mean? Eph. 4: 17, 18.
8.
How are those accounted who are thus "alienated from
the life of God"? Eph. 2: 1.
9.
What is therefore involved in the restoration of the
dominion? 1 John 1: 3.
10.
How is God the Father related to. life? Ps. 36: 9;
Acts 17: 25.
11.
Through whom is life given to us? 1 John 5: 11, 12.
12.
What is a primary condition of entering the kingdom?
John 3: 3, 5.
13.
Into what relation with the human family did the Son
of God enter? Rom. 8: 3.
14.
Who did He become? 1 Cor. 15: 47, 45.
15.
What is restored to us through His coming to this
earth? John 10: 10.
16.
What is given to this second man? Eph. 1: 10, A. R. V.
17.
What prophecy is thus to be fulfilled? Dan. 7: 13, 14.
18.
When will the kingdom be given to the Son of man?
Matt. 25: 31.
19.
What hope must be abandoned? John 3: 6; Rom. 7:
18; 1 Cor. 15: 50.
20.
For what end must all else be sacrificed? Phil. 3: 8, 9.
21.
What will be the experience of those who do-this? Phil.
4 : 13; 1 John 5: 4.
22.
What will they share with Christ? Rev. 3: 21.
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
5
23.
What .experience prepares for this? John 17: 20, 21,
A. R. V.; John 13: 13.
24.
To whom will the dominion be restored? and who will
share it with Him? See synopsis, paragraph 4.
Notes
THE KEY AND THE DOOR TO THE KINGDOM
1.
"Jesus is Himself the Key and the Door to the kingdom. Men enter
it by entering into relations with Himself. It is by repentance, forgiveness,
and faith, and in regard to all these His action is crucial, and His authority
supreme."—"Aspects
of Christ," page 156.
THE KINGDOM RESTORED
2.
"At his creation, Adam was placed in dominion over the earth. But
by yielding to temptation, he was brought under the power of Satan. 'Of
whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage.' When
man became Satan's captive, the dominion which he held, passed to his
conqueror. Thus Satan became 'the god of this world.' He had usurped that
dominion over the earth which had been originally given to Adam. But
Christ, by His sacrifice paying the penalty of sin, would not only redeem
man, but recover the dominion which he had forfeited. All that was lost by
the first Adam will be restored by the second. Says the prophet, '0 Tower
of the flock, the stronghold of the daughter of Zion, unto Thee, shall it come,
even the first dominion.' And the apostle Paul pointS forward to the 're-
demption of the purchased possession.'
"—"Patriarchs and Prophets," page
67.
•
Lesson
2
— The Promise of the Territory
OCTOBER
8, 1921
Daily Study Outline
1.
Study synopsis, paragraphs 4. Questions 7-13; note 2.
1-3, looking up texts.
5. Questions 14-20; note 3.
2.
Study synopsis, paragraphs 6. Questions 21-24.
4, 5, looking up texts.
7. Review synopsis; study the
3.
Questions 1-6; note 1.
notes.
Synopsis
SEED
THOUGHT:
"The Bible plainly teaches that the prom-
ises made to Abraham are to be fulfilled through Christ.
All that are Christ's are 'Abraham's seed, and heirs accord-
ing to the promise.'
"—"Patriarchs and Prophets," page 170.
1. The gospel is the good news concerning the Son of
God (Rom. 1: 1, 3), and has been made known in the promises
announced through the prophets (verse 2). These promises
find their fulfillment in and through Christ (2 Cor. 1: 19, 20,
A. R. V.), who is Himself the Amen (Rey. 3:14). This
gospel was preached' to Abraham (Gal. 3: 8), when he was
called to leave all and to go out into an unknown land (Gen.
6
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
12: 1-3). The blessing of Abraham is realized only through
Christ. Gal. 3: 14.
2.
The first promise of the land, the territory of the re-
stored kingdom, was made, not to Abraham the individual,
but to the seed of Abraham (Gen. 12: 7), and this promise
became later the subject of an everlasting covenant (Gen.
15: 18). In the mind of God, "this land" included the world
(Rom. 4: 13), • that is, the new earth, or the inheritance
(Gal. 3: 18).
3.
According to the interpretation given by the Holy
Spirit, the seed of Abraham is Christ (Gal. 3: 16) ; and
therefore to Christ the 'new earth, or the inheritance, was
given. But the term "Christ" includes not simply the indi-
vidual seed of Abraham who was born in Bethlehem, but all
who are members of His body (1 Cor. 12: 27, 12), or the
collective seed, as they are "in Christ" (Rom. 12: 5). All
therefore who are finally found "in Christ" are Abraham's
seed, and will share in the inheritance promised to Christ.
Gal. 3 : 29.
4.
All our right to the possession of this world as origi-
nally given to the first Adam was forfeited through sin, and
passed over to Satan, whom Christ Himself recognized as
"the prince of the world" (John 14: 30, A. R. V.), and who
claimed proprietorship over it (Luke 4: 5, 6). Christ, to
whom the lost world was given by promise, came to seek
after it (Luke 19: 10), by casting out the usurper (John
12: 31, 32). We have reason to be of good cheer, because He
has conquered the world (John 16: 33), as our representative,
and we therefore may share in His victory.
5.
Even though the land of Canaan had been given to the
children of Israel by promise, it had to be taken from the
enemy who then possessed it (Joshua 1: 2-6) ; but it was the
Lord's host who entered upon this conquest (Joshua 5: 13, 14),
and their experience in taking Jericho showed the Lord's plan
that they should conquer by relying upon Him (Heb. 11: 30).
By the same faith and dependence upon God, we may conquer
the world (1 John 5: 4), and enter upon the possession of
the everlasting inheritance promised to Christ in the flesh,
the seed, and so to all who are found "in Christ."
Questions
1.
Who is the subject of the gospel? Rom. 1: 1, 3.
2.
How has the gospel been made known? Verse 2.
3.
In and through whom do those promises find their
fulfillment? 2 Cor. 1: 19, 20, A. R. V.
4.
What title by which Christ is known, indicates this?
Rev. 3: 14.
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
7
5.
What was preached to Abraham? Gal. 3: 8.
6.
Where was Abraham called to go before the gospel
promises would be fulfilled to him? Gen. 12: 1-3.
7.
Through .whom is the blessing of Abraham realized?
Gal. 3: 14.
8.
To whom was the first promise of the land made?
Gen. 12: 7.
9.
In what solemn form was this promise set forth?
Gen. 15: 18.
10.
How much was included in this promise? Rom. 4: 13;
Gal. 3: 18.
ii. Who is the seed to whom the promises were made?
Gal. 3: 16.
12.
Who are included under the name "Christ"? 1 Cor.
12: 27, 12.
13.
In what way are they constituted one body? Rom. 12:5.
14.
Who then are entitled to the benefits of the promises to
the seed of Abraham? Gal. 3: 29.
15.
How was our right to the possession of the world for-
feited? See synopsis, paragraph 4.
16.
To whom did this right pass over? and how was he rec-
ognized? John 14: 30, A. R. V.
17.
What claim did he make? Luke 4: 5, 6.
18.
For what purpose did Christ come? Luke 19: 10.
19.
Whom did He cast out? John 12: 31, 32.
20.
For what reason did Christ urge His followers to be of
good cheer? John 16: 33.
21.
After the land was given to the children of Israel by
promise, what had they to do? Joshua 1: 2-6.
22.
Whose host went forth to conquer the promised land?
Joshua 5: 13, 14.
23.
By what means were they to conquer? Heb. 11: 30.
24.
By what means are we to conquer the world, and thus
gain the inheritance promised to us who are "in Christ"?
1 John 5: 4.
Notes
ALL GOD'S PROMISES FULFILLED THROUGH CHRIST
1.
"The second truth covered and guarded by the conception of Jesus
as the Christ is this: that He is the person through whom God's kingdom
comes, and through whom all God's promises are fulfilled. . . . To borrow
the language of Paul, 'How many soever are the promises of God, in Him
is the Yea.' 2 Cor. 1: 20. They must be fulfilled in Him, or not at all:
or rather we should say, They have been fulfilled in Him, and in no other."
-"Jesus and the Gospel." pages
15, 16.
2.
"No promise of God has ever been given to man except through
Christ. Personal faith in Christ is the one thing necessary in order to
receive whatever God has promised."
THE' SEED INCLUDES THOSE WHO ARE IN CHRIST
3.
"The seed of Abraham, to whom the promise was made, is Christ.
He is the heir. . . . Those who have been baptized into Christ have put
8
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
on Christ, and are therefore one in Him. So when it is said that Christ is
the seed of Abraham, to whom the promises' were made, all who are in
Christ are included. But nothing outside of Christ is included in the promise.
To say that the inheritance promised to the seed of Abraham could be
possessed by any except those who were Christ's through faith in Him, is
to ignore the gospel, and to deny the word of God."
Lesson 3 — The Promise of the Throne
-
OCTOBER 15, 1921
•
Daily Study Outline
1.
Study synopsis, paragraphs 4. Questions 5-10; note 2.
1, 2, looking up texts.
5. Questions 11-17;
note
3.
2.
Study synopsis, paragraphs 6. Questions 18-23.
3, 4, looking up texts.
7. Review synopsis; study the
3.
Questions 1-4; note 1.
notes.
Synopsis
SEED
THOUGHT:
"On the human side He [Christ] had the
title to the kingship as son of David, while on the divine side
as Son of God He had also the right to the throne."—"The
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia," page 1803.
1.
The first Adam was appointed as God's vicegerent to
have dominion over the earth, by virtue of being created
in the image of God. Gen. 1: 26. When he lost that image,
he lost the power to exercise the dominion. Yet the purpose
of God that man should rule the earth, was not to be thus
set aside; and the gospel provides for the restoration of the
image of God, and therefore the restoration of the dominion.
1 Cor. 15: 49; Rom. 8: 29. This involved the sending of the
Son of God, who is His image (Col. 1: 15), to become the
second man (1 Cor. 15: 47), the last Adam (verse 45).
2.
The purpose of God to restore man to his place as ruler
of the world was involved in the first gospel promise of one
to come who should bruise the head of the usurper. Gen. 3: 15.
The seed through whom this blessing would be realized was
later limited to the seed of Abraham (Gen. 12: 3), and to the
line of Isaac (Gen. 21: 12). After the people had demanded
a visible king (1 Sam. 8: 4, 5), and their demand had been
granted (verse 22), and David, who was definitely selected by
the Lord (1 Sam. 16: 11-13), was found to be a man after
God's own heart (Acts 13: 22), the Lord definitely promised
him that the throne and the kingdom of his seed should be
established forever (2 Sam. 7: 12, 13). This promise is
designated as a covenant based upon the oath of God (Ps.
89: 3, 4), to be fulfilled in a flesh and blood descendant of
David (Ps. 132: 11). The succession of day and night is the
pledge of its fulfillment. Jer. 33: 20, 21.
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
9
3.
The seed of David to whom the everlasting throne was
given by promise, was Jesu§ of Nazareth (Luke 1: 31-33),
who was of the seed of David (Rom. 1: 3). Those who were
familiar with the Scriptures knew that the promised Messiah
was the son of David (Matt. 22: 41, 42), and He was thus
acclaimed by the people (Matt. 21 :
4.
But the son of David was the Son of man, the last
Adam; and the throne and the kingdom were given to Him as
the representative of humanity. Dan. 7: 13, 14, 27. Those
who overcome will share the throne with Him (Rev. 3: 21),
and will reign "upon the earth" (Rev. 5:9, 10, A. R. V.) ,
through Christ (Rom. 5: 17, A. R. V.), "forever and ever"
(Rev. 22: 5).
Questions
1.
To what position was the first Adam appointed by
creation? Gen. 1: 26.
2.
What provision is made through the gospel of Christ?
1 Cor. 15: 49; Rom. 8:29.
3.
What is Christ, the Son of God? Col. 1: 15.
4.
Who did He become? 1 Cor. 15: 47, 45.
5.
What was the first gospel promise? and what was in-
volved in it? Gen. 3: 15.
6.
To whose family was this' seed afterwards limited?
Gen. 12:3.
7.
In whose line in this family would the seed come?
Gen. 21 : 12.
8.
What demand did the elders of Israel make of Samuel?
1 Sam. 8: 4, 5.
9.
By whose authority was this demand granted? Verse 22.
10.
What king was found to be after God's own heart?
Acts 13: 22.
11.
What definite promise was made to David? 2 Sam.
7: 12, 13.
12.
How was this promise designated? Ps. 89: 3, 4.
13.
How was it to be fulfilled? Ps. 132: 11.
14.
What pledge of its fulfillment was given? Jer. 33:
20, 21.
15.
Who was the seed of David to whom the everlasting
throne was promised? Luke 1: 31-33.
.16. What does the Scripture say concerning His birth?
Rom. 1: 3.
17.
With what fact were the religious leaders of Christ's
day familiar? Matt. 22: 41, 42.
18.
What was the conviction of the people concerning
Christ? Matt. 21: 9.
19.
In what representative capacity will the seed of David
receive the throne? Dan. 7: 13, 14, 27.
10
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
20.
Who will share the throne with Him? Rev. 3: 21.
21.
Where will they reign? Rev. 5: 9, 10, A. R. V.
22.
Through whom will they reign? Rom. 5: 17, A. R. V.
23.
How long will they reign? Rev. 22: 5.
Notes
THE PROMISES TO DAVID FULFILLED IN CHRIST
1.
"Glorious are the promises made to David and his house, promises
that look forward to the eternal ages, and find their complete fulfillment in
Christ."—"Patriarchs
and Prophets," page 754.
THE SURE MERCIES OF DAVID'
2.
"The promise to David . .was not of any earthly and temporal,
but of a heavenly and eternal kingdo
m—not of a changing and corruptible
throne, but of one that was unchanging and incorruptible. The sure mercies
of David, therefore, were mercies that could never perish or pass away ; not
such as could be handed on from sire to son, but such as would abide for-
ever in the person of that son who he believed had been promised to him,
and for whom so many generations and ages waited."—"Old
Testament
Prophecy," pages 114, 115.
THE SON OF DAVID
3.
"After the analogy of earthly kingships it might be said that Jesus
Christ is a
king
by birth. He was born a king. His mother, like His
reputed father, 'was of the house and family of David.' Luke 2: 4. The
angel in announcing His birth declares that He will occupy the throne of
His father David. The Pharisees have no hesitation in affirming that the
Christ would be the Son of David. Matt. 22: 45 ; Mark 12: 35 ; Luke 20: 41.
Frequently in His life He was hailed as 'Son of David' ; and after His
ascension, Peter declares that the promise God had made to David that 'of
the fruit of his loins He would set one upon his throne' (Acts 2:30) was
fulfilled in Jesus of Nazareth."—"The
International Standard Bible Ency-
clopedia," page 1805.
Lesson 4 — The Promise to Abraham
OCTOBER
22, 1921
Daily Study Outline
1.
Study synopsis, paragraphs 4. Questions 6-12.
1-3, looking up texts.
5. Questions 13-18; note 1.
2.
Study synopsis, paragraphs O. Questions 19-23; note 2.
4-6, looking up texts.
7. Review synopsis; study the
3.
Questions 1-5.
notes.
Synopsis
SEED
THOUGHT:
"God's covenant with Abraham, being in
effect His covenant with mankind in Christ, stands both first
and
last."—"The Expositor's Bible" (Galatians), page 205.
1. The promise of the land (the world) to the seed of
Abraham (Christ), and the promise of an everlasting throne
to the seed of David (Christ), are the great promises of the
gospel. Their fulfillment involves the gift of Christ to take
our flesh, and His redemptive work in our behalf. A brief
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
11
study of the development and fulfillment of these promises
will therefore be of interest and profit.
- 2. The covenant which was made with Abraham was estab-
lished with Isaac (Gen. 17: 21; 26: 3) ; and for Abraham's
sake, his seed was to be multiplied (Gen. 26: 24). The bless-
ing of Abraham, which included the promise of the land,
was bestowed by Isaac upon Jacob (Gen. 28: 3, 4), and re-
newed by Jehovah Himself (verses 13, 14) ; and just before
his death, Joseph assured his brethren in Egypt that God
would bring them into the land promised "to Abraham, to
Isaac, and to Jacob" (Gen. 50: 24).
3.
The covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob was re-
ferred to when God made Himself known as Jehovah, the
Redeemer (Ex. 6: 2-4) ; and His sevenfold promise of de-
liverance culminated in the promise to bring the children of
Israel into the land which He had sworn to give "to Abraham,
to Isaac, and to Jacob" (verses 6-8). The time of the so-
journ of the children of Israel was definitely stated to
Abraham (Gen. 15: 13, 14), and the fulfillment of this time
promise was mentioned by Stephen when he made his de-
fense before the council (Acts 7: 17).
4.
The promise to "Abraham, Isaac, and Israel [Jacob]"
was made the basis of Moses' plea in behalf of the people
after they had lapsed into idolatry in the wilderness. Ex.
32: 13. The psalmist began his review of the wonderful works
of the Lord in behalf of Israel by referring to .the covenant
with Abraham concerning the -land (Ps. 105: 8-11), and he
closed his review by another reference to the same promise
(verse 42). Moses declared that it was because of the
oath of the Lord to their fathers that He brought them out
of Egypt. Deut. 7: 8. In the face of threatened trouble
on account of the apostasy of Judah, the prophet Micah gave
assurance that the Lord would perform the oath which He
swore to the fathers. Micah 7: 18-20.
5.
The prophet Isaiah used the then partial fulfillment
of the promised blessing upon Abraham as the basis of the
confidence that the Lord would comfort Zion. Isa. 51: 2, 3.
In view of the certainty of the fulfillment of the promise to
Abraham, John the Baptist warned the Jews of his day
against building their hope upon their being the literal seed
of Abraham, since God could fulfill the promise apart from
them (Matt. 3: 9) ; and Jesus Himself gave substantially the
same warning (Matt. 8: 10-12; Luke 13: 28). They that are
of faith are the children of Abraham (Gal. 3: 7), and will be
blessed with Abraham (verse 9).
6.
Zacharias recognized the advent of Christ, through
whom the promise was to be fulfilled, as due to the fact that
12
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
God remembered His covenant with Abraham. Luke 1: 72, 73.
Abraham was exalted to be the father of many nations
(Gen. 17: 5), with the promise of special divine favor to be
shown to him and his seed (verse 7), which would be in
number like the stars, and as the sand by the seashore (Gen.
15: 5; Heb. 11: 14. These promises are fulfilled through
Christ, the Son of Abraham. Matt. 1: 1.
Questions
1.
What two promises may be regarded as the great prom-
ises of the gospel? See synopsis, paragraph 1.
2.
What covenant was established with Isaac? Gen. 17:
21;.26: 3.
3.
What blessing was bestowed by .Isaac upon Jacob?
Gen. 28:3, 4.
4.
By whom was this blessing renewed to Jacob? Verses
13, 14.
5.
How dicl'Joseph show his faith in God's promise of the
land? Gen. 50: 24.
6.
What covenant was referred to when God made Him-
self known as the Redeemer? Ex. 6: 2-4.
.7. In what did the promise of deliverance culminate?
Verses 6-8.
8.
To whom was the time of this 'deliverance definitely
stated? Gen. 15: 13, 14.
9.
What mention of this promise after the advent of
Christ, shows the importance attached to it? Acts 7: 17.
10.
What did Moses make the basis of his plea in behalf
of the people after they had made the molten calf? Ex.
32: 13.
11.
How did the psalmist begin his review of the wonder-
ful works of God in behalf of Israel ? Ps. 105: 8-11.
12.
How did he close this review? Verse 42.
13.
What reason did Moses give for the deliverance of the
children of Israel 6om Egypt? Deut. 7: 8.
14.
What assurance did Micah the prophet give? Micah
7: 18-20.
15.
What use did Isaiah the prophet make of the promised
blessing to Abraham? Isa. 51:2, 3.
16.
What warning did John the Baptist give to the Jews of
his time? Matt. 3: 9.
17.
What warning was given by Jesus? Matt. 8: 10-12;
Luke 13: 28.
18.
Who are the children of Abraham ? and who will be
blessed with him ? Gal. 3: 7, 9.
19.
To what did Zacharias refer when he prophesied con-
cerning the birth of Christ? Luke 1: 72, 73.
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
13
20.
What exalted position was assigned to Abraham?
Gen. 17: 5.
21.
What promise of special favor was made to him?
Verse 7.
22.
How numerous was his seed to be ? Gen. 15: 5; Heb.
11: 12.
23.
Through whom are these promises to be fulfilled?
Matt. 1: 1.
Notes
THE PROMISE TO ABRAHAM
1. "The covenant of grace was first made with man in Eden, when
after the fall, there was given a divine promise that the seed of the woman
should bruise the serpent's head. . . . This same covenant was
renewed
to
Abraham in the promise, 'In thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be
blessed.'
"—Patriarchs and Prophets," page 870.
ABRAHAM THROUGHOUT THE BIBLE
,2. "Abraham is a significant figure throughout the Bible. . . . 'The God
of Abraham' serves as a designation of Jehovah from the time of Isaac to
the latest period. . . .
"When we pass to the New Testament we are astonished at-the wealth
and variety of allusion to Abraham. As in the Old Testament, his position
of ancestor lends him much of his significance, not only as ancestor of Israel
(Acts 13: 26), but specifically as ancestor, now of the Levitical priesthood
(Heb. 7: 5), now of the Messiah (Matt. 1: 1), now, by the peculiarly Chris-
tian doctrine of the unity of believers in Christ, of Christian believers (Gal.
3:16, 29). All that Abraham the ancestor received through divine election,
by the covenant made with him, is inherited by his seed, and passes under
the collective names of the promise (Rom.
4:
13), the blessing (Gal. 3: 14),
mercy (Luke 1:54), the oath (Luke 1:73), the covenant (Acts 3:25).
. . . It is his faith in the divine promise, which, just because it was for
him peculiarly unsupported by any evidence of the senses, becomes the type
of the faith which leads to justification (Rom. 4: 3), and there in this sense
again he is the 'father' of Christians, as believers (Rom. 4 :
11)."—"The
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia," page 21.
Six Million Dollais to Missions
In round numbers the Sabbath schools of the denomi-
nation have given six million dollars to missions, the
time for each million varying as here indicated:
First Million Dollars in 25 years
Second Million Dollars in 3% years
Third Million Dollars in 2% years
Fourth Million Dollars in 1% years
Fifth Million Dollars in 1 year
Sixth Million Dollars in 9 months
14
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
Lesson 5 — The Promise to David
OCTOBER' 29, 1921
Daily Study Outline
1.
Study synopsis, paragraphs 4. Questions 7-12; note 2.
1-5, looking up texts.
5. Questions 13-18.
2.
Study synopsis, paragraphs 6. Questions 19-24.
6-S, looking up texts.
7. Review synopsis; study the
3.
Questions 1-6; note 1.
notes.
Synopsis
SEED THOUGHT: "David reigned in the Lord's name, and
the.Lord, in the fullness of time, was born to occupy David's
throne."—"The
Typology of Scripture," pages 121, 122.
1. In the last lesson, we considered the development and
fulfillment of the promise to Abraham. In this lesson, we
shall study concerning the promise to David.
•
2. The house of Saul, the first king of Israel, had passed
(1 Chron. 10: 6), and the kingdom was turned to David
(verse 14); and the Lord promised to make him a house
(2 Sam. 7: 11, last clause), which would continue "for a
great while to come" (verse 19), even "forever" (verse 29).
3. In his reign, David represented the character of ,God
(2 Sam. 8: 15; Ps. 103: 6); and he became a manifest type of
Christ and His eternal reign (Ezek. 34: 23, 24; 37: 24, 25;
Jer. 30: 8, 9). The throne of David was called "the throne
of the Lord" (1 Chron. 29: 23), and this throne was to be
established "forever" (2 Sam. 7: 16; Ps. 89: 34-36).
4. When a conspiracy was made to overthrow the king who
sat on David's throne, and to put another in his place (Isa.
7: 5, 6), the prophet of the Lord foretold the birth of a son
who should sit on David's throne to establish it forever
(Isa. 9: 6, 7).
5. In his prayer at the dedication of the temple, Solomon
referred to the covenant-promise to David (2 Chron. 6: 16) ;
and through the prophet Jeremiah, the Lord testified to the
absolute certainty of the fulfillment of this promise (Jer.
33: 19-21). The same prophet foretold the coming of "a
righteous Branch" who should "reign as king" (Jer. 23: 5,
A. R. V.), and his name, points plainly to Christ (verse 6).
6. The angel Gabriel, in announcing the birth of Jesus,
declared that the throne of His father David would be given
to Him (Luke 1: 32, 33) ; and the people recognized Him as
the Son of David (Matt. 12: 23). Under the inspiration of
the Holy Spirit, Zacharias spoke of Christ as "a horn of
salvation" raised up in the house of David. Luke 1: 68, 69,
A. R. V. When Jesus made His entry into Jerusalem, He
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
15
was greeted with the cry, "Blessed is the kingdom that
cometh, the kingdom of our father David" (Mark 11: 9, 10,
A. R. V.) ; and after His ascension, Jesus spoke of Himself
as "the root and the offspring of David" (Rev. 22: 16).
7.
The psalmist recorded the promise that a direct de-
scendant of David should sit on his throne (Ps. 132: 11) ; and
on the Day of Pentecost, the apostle Peter used this promise
as the basis of belief in the resurrection of Christ, through
whom the promise was to be fulfilled (Acts 2: 29-31, 34-36).
The climax in the development and .fulfillment of these prom-
ises and prophecies will come in the days of the seventh angel.
Rev. 11: 15.
8.
From these scriptures, it is clear that the promise of
the everlasting throne to the seed of David (2 Sam. 7: 12, 13)
was to be fulfilled in Jesus Christ, the Son of David (Matt.
1: 1) ; and those who are- "in Christ" and endure, will reign
with Him (2 Tim. 2: 12).
Questions
1.
What happened to the house of Saul? 1 Chron. 10: 6.
2.
To whom was the kingdom of Israel turned? Verse 14.
' 3. What did the Lord promise to do for David? 2 Sam.
7: 11, last clause.
4.
How long would this house continue? Verses 19, 29.
5.
Whose character was represented in David's reign?
2 Sam. 8: 15; Ps. 103: 6.
.6. What prophecies spoke of David in such a way as to
show that he was a type of Christ? Ezek. 34: 23, 24;
37: 24, 25; Jer. 30:8, 9.
7.
What was the throne of David called? 1 Chron.
29: 23.
8.
What is said' of the duration of this throne? 2 Sam.
7: 16; Ps. 89: 34-36.
9.
What conspiracy was made against the throne- of David
in the days of Ahaz? Isa. 7: 5, 6.
10.
In connection with this event, what prophecy was
uttered? Isa. 9: 6, 7.
•
11.
To what did Solomon refer in his prayer at the dedi-
cation of the temple? 2 Chron. 6: 16.
12.
What testimony was borne to the fulfillment of this
promise? Jer. 33: 19-21.
13.
Of whose coming did Jeremiah prophesy? Jer. 23: 5,
A. R. V.
14.
To whom does the name given to this Branch point?
Verse 6.
15.
In announcing the birth of Jesus, what statement did
the angel Gabriel make concern'ng the throne of David?
Luke 1: 32, 33.
16
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
16.
What were the people led to think concerning Christ?
Matt. 12: 23.
17.
How did Zacharias refer to Christ? Luke 1: 68, 69,
A. R. V.
18.
What shout did the people raise when Jesus made His
entry into Jerusalem? Mark 11: 9, 10, A. R. V.
19.
How did Jesus speak of Himself after His ascension?
Rev. 22: 16.
20.
What promise is recorded concerning David by the
psalmist? Ps. 132: 11.
21.
How did Peter show that this promise referred to
Christ? Acts 2: 29-31, 34-3Q.
22.
When will the climax in the development of these prom-
ises and prophecies come? Rev. 11: 15.
23.
What is made clear by these scriptures in this lesson?
2 Sam. 7: 12, 13; Matt. 1: 1.
24.
Who will share with Christ in the fulfillment of these
promises? 2 Tim. 2: 12.
Notes
•
SHEPHERDS WATCHED FOR THE KING TO DAVID'S THRONE
1.
"In the fields where the boy David had led his flock, shepherds were
still keeping watch by night. Through the silent hours they talked together
of the promised Saviour, and prayed for the coming of the King to David's
throne. . . . At these words [Luke 2: 8-14], visions of glory fill the minds
of the listening shepherds. The Deliverer has come to Israel ! Power, exal-
tation, triumph, are associated with His coming."—"The
Desire of Ages,"
page
4l.
CHRIST ON DAVID'S THRONE
.
2.
"The Pharisees had gathe1ed close about Jesus as He answered the
question of the scribe. Now turning He put a question to them: 'What
think ye of Christ? whose son is He?' This question was designed to test
their belief concerning the Messiah,—to show whether they regarded Him
simply as a man or as the Son of God. A chorus of voices answered, 'The
Son of David.' This was the title which prophecy had given to the Messiah.
When Jesus revealed His divinity by His mighty miracles, when He healed
the sick and raised the dead, the people had inquired among themselves, 'Is
not this the Son of David?' The Syro-Phenician woman, blind Bartimeus,
and many others had cried to Him for help, 'Have mercy on me, 0 Lord,
Thou Son of David.' While riding into Jerusalem He had been hailed with
the joyful shout, 'Hosanna to the Son of David ; blessed is He that cometh in
the name of the Lord.' And the little children in the temple had that day
echoed the glad ascription. But many who called Jesus the Son of David
did not recognize His divinity. They did not understand that the Son of
David was also the Son of God."—Id.,
pages 608, 609.
.
Remember the millions in Central and West China.
Our thirteenth Sabbath offering is for that field.
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
17
Lesson 6 — Prophecies Concerning the
Kingdom
NOVEMBER. 5, 1921
Daily Study Outline
1.
Study synopsis, paragraphs 4. Questions 7-11; note 2.
1,-2, looking up texts.
5. Questions 12-16; note 3.
2.
Study synopsis, paragraphs 6. Questions 17-23.
3, 4, looking up texts.
7. Review synopsis; study the
3.
Questions 1-6; note 1.
notes.
Synopsis
SEED THOUGHT: "All prophecy ultimately relates to this
new King, the divine head of the Adamic race, and to His
kingdom; to His first coming and its militant period, to His
second coming and its triumphant period."—"The
Scriptures
God's Living Oracles," page 28.
1.
The Lord Most High is infinite in greatness and power
and understanding (Ps. 147: 5), "possessor of heaven and
earth" (Gen. 14: 19), whose is the kingdom (1 Chron. 29: 11) ,
and He is "King of all the earth" (Ps. 47: 6, 7). It was His
plan that man should be His vicegerent in ruling this world.
Gen. 1: 26. Although sin
.
has for a time interfered with this
plan, yet the plan will be carried out.
2.
Inasmuch as the gospel' is the good news of the res-
toration of the kingdom of God, naturally prophecies concern-
ing the kingdom should occupy a large place in the Scriptures.
Some of these prophecies will now be studied. In a certain
sense, the Old Testament as a whole is one great prophecy,
in both its history of the chosen people, and its typical forms
of government and of worship, as well as in its direct predic-
tions; but we shall necessarily confine ourselves to an outline
of the more important predictions concerning the kingdom and
its restoration.
3.
Isaiah prophesied at a time when Assyria from the
north and Egypt from the south were threatening the king-
dom of Judah; and interspersed with his warnings against
an alliance with any foreign power, and his exhortations
,
to
rely upon Jehovah (Isa. 50: 10), were prophecies of a 'glori-
ous time when the ideal kingdom should be established. This
would be accomplished through the agency of "a shoot out
of the stock of Jesse" (Isa. 11: 1, A. R. V.), who would judge
"with righteousness" (verse 4), and with faithfulness (verse
5). The knowledge of the Lord would fill the earth (verse 9),
and the nations would seek to "the Root of Jesse" (verse
10). The nature of the kingdom is clearly indicated (Isa.
32: 1), and it corresponds with the description through the
18
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
apostle Paul (Rom. 14: 17) . There is the promise of beholding
a king of an unusual character (Isa. 33: 17) , who is plainly
named as being Jehovah (verse 22, A. R. V.), the Holy One
of Israel, and their Creator (Isa. 43: 15). An essential part
of the new order of things will be "new heavens and a new
earth" (Isa. 65: 17), for which we are still looking (2 Peter
3: 13).
4. The action of the people in the days of Samuel, in re-
jecting the Lord, that He should not be king over them, and in
demanding an earthly king (1 Sam. 8: 1-7), was prophetic
of the total rejection of their true King in favor of an earthly
ruler (John 19: 15).
Questions
1.
What is revealed concerning the greatness and power
of the Lord? Ps. 147:5.
2.
Of what is He the possessor? Gen. 14: 19.
3.
What belongs to Him? 1 Chron. 29: 11.
4.
How extensive is His rule? Ps. 47: 6, 7..
5.
What was His plan for man? Gen. 1:26.
6.
What effect has sin had upon this plan? See synopsis,
paragraph 1.
7.
Why should we expect that prophecies concerning the
kingdom would occupy a large place in the Scriptures? See
synopsis, paragraph 2.
8.
What kingdoms were threatening Judah when Isaiah
prophesied? See synopsis, paragraph 3.
9.
Upon whom did he urge the people to rely? Isa. 50: 10.
10.
What were interspersed among his warnings and exhor-
tations? See synopsis, paragraph 3.
11.
Through whose agency would this ideal kingdom be
established? Isa. 11: 1, A. R. V.
12.
What would be characteristic of His rule? Verses 4, 5.
13.
What would, fill the earth? Verse 9.
14.
To whom would the nations seek?- Verse 10.
15.
What indicates the nature of this kingdom? Isa. 32: 1.
16.
What statement through the apostle Paul corresponds
with this? Rom. 14: 17.
17.
What promise foreshadows a king of unusual char-
acter? Isa. 33: 17.
18.
Who is this declared to be? Verse 22, A. R. V.
19.
How is He further described? Isa. 43: 15.
20.
What is an essential part of this new order of things?
Isa. 65: 17.
21.
For what are we now looking? 2 Peter
3:
13.
22.
What attitude did the people assume toward the Lord
in the days of Samuel? 1 Sam. 8: 1-7.
23.
Of what was this action a prophecy? John 19: 15.
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
19
Notes
•
THE CHRIST OF PROPHECY
1.
"Reports have reached the rulers in Jerusalem that Jesus is approach-
ing the city with a great concourse of people. But they have no welcome
for the Son of God. In fear they go out to meet Him, hoping to disperse
the throng. As the procession is about to descend the Mount of Olives, it is
intercepted by the rulers. They inquire the cause of the tumultuous re-
joicing. As they question, 'Who is this ?' the disciples, filled with the spirit
of inspiration, answer this question. In eloquent strains they repeat the
prophecies concerning Christ :—
"Adam will tell you, It is the seed of the woman that shall bruise the
serpent's head.
"Ask Abraham, he will tell you, It is 'Melchizedek, King of Salem,' King
of peace.
"Jacob will tell you, He is Shiloh of the tribe of Judah.
"Isaiah will tell you, 'Immanuel,"Wonderful, Counselor, the mighty God,
the everlasting Father, the Prince of peace.'
"Jeremiah will tell you, The Branch of David, 'the Lord our Righteous-
ness.'
"Daniel will tell you, He is the Messiah.
"Hosea will tell you, He is 'the Lord God of hosts ; the Lord is His
memorial.'
"John the Baptist will tell you, He is 'the Lamb of God, which taketh
away the sin of the world.'
"The great Jehovah has proclaimed from His throne, 'This is My be-
loved Son.'
"We, His disciples, declare, This is Jesus, the Messiah, the Prince of
life, the Redeemer of the world.
"And the prince of the poivers of darkness acknowledges Him, saying,
'I know Thee who Thou art, the Holy One of God.'"—"The
Desire of Ages,"
pages 578, 579.
THE DIVINE PROGRAM OF HISTORY
2.
"To trace the hand of God in history, to note how all the ages of His
providential government have moved according to a foreseen and foretold
order, to watch the last stages of the divine program of universal history
fulfilling themselves in our sight in these last days, to discern 'the signs of
the times,' and to observe the budding of the fig tree, is to find hope merg-
ing in
definite expectation,
and in patient waiting for Christ—a waiting
for Him as for one whose footfall may be already heard, one who even now
standeth at the door ; it is to lift up our heads, convinced that our redemp-
tion, our
full
redemption, the redemption of ,the body, and of the world
itself, draweth nigh."—"Light
for the Last Days," page 18.
•
THE EVIDENCE OF PROPHECY
•
3. "After His resurrection, Jesus appeared to His disciples on the way
to Emmaus, and 'beginning at Moses and all the prophets, He expounded
unto them in all the Scriptures the things concerning Himself.' The hearts
of the disciples were stirred. Faith was kindled. They were 'begotten again
unto a lively hope,' even before Jesus revealed Himself to them. It was His
purpose to enlighten their understanding, and to fasten their faith upon
'the sure word of prophecy.' He wished the truth to take firm root in
their minds, not merely because it was supported by -His personal testimony,
but because of the unquestionable evidence presented by the symbols and
shadows of the typical law, and by the prophecies of the Old Testament."—
"The Great Controversy,"
page
849.
20
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
Lesson
7
— The Outcome of the Struggle for
World Supremacy
NOVEMBER 12, 1921
Daily Study Outline
1.
Study synopsis, paragraphs 4. Questions 6-11; note 2.
1, 2, looking up texts.
5. Questions 12-16; note 3.
2.
Study synopsis, paragraph 6. Questions 17-22; note 4.
3, looking up texts.
7. Review synopsis; study the
3.
Questions 1-5; note 1.
notes.
Synopsis
SEED THOUGHT: "The waning power of Israel testified that
the Messiah's coming was at hand. The prophecy of Daniel
pictured the glory of His reign over an empire which should
succeed all earthly kingdoms; and, said the prophet, 'It shall
stand forever.' "—"
The Desire of Ages," page 34-
1.
Although the Lord warned His people against making
any alliances with a worldly power (Isa. 30: 1, 2), yet Ahaz
sought the help of Assyria (2 Chron. 28: 16), and Hoshea
turned to Egypt for assistance (2 Kings 17:4): As the
result of their evil course in this and other matters, Israel
was carried captive by Assyria (verses 6-18), and later
Judah was carried to Babylon (1 Chron. 9: 1, A. R. V.).
2.
After Jerusalem had been utterly destroyed (2 Chron.
36: 17-19), and there seemed to be no hope, from a human
standpoint, that the predictions of the prophets concerning
the future glory of the kingdom would ever be realized, the
Lord gave most definite assurances through the prophet Daniel
concerning the establishment of the everlasting kingdom.
God made known to Nebuchadnezzar, in his dream of the
great image, what would come to pass "in the latter days"
(Dan. 2: 28) ; and in declaring the interpretation of this
dream, Daniel told him that the head of gold represented
the kingdom of Babylon (verses 37, 38), that a second and a
third kingdom would succeed his (verse 39), that a fourth
kingdom would follow (verse 40), and that this last kingdom
would be divided (verse 41). This brief outline of the history
of the world, covering many centuries of time, 'has found its
fulfillment in the four great universal kingdoms, Babylon,
Medo-Persia, Greece, and Rome, including the division of
Rome into ten kingdoms. These were so many historical steps
leading up to the consummation of all human history—the
setting up of the everlasting kingdom of God. Verse 44.
3.
By His providential control of circumstances, the' God
of heaven so ordered the matter that the dream of Nebuchad-
nezzar and its interpretation not only announced that His
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
21
everlasting kingdom would follow the overthrow of all the
worldly kingdoms, but also indicated the reason for its in-
definite duration. The religion of Babylon did not contem-
plate that personal union between Deity and humanity (Dan.
2: 11) which was the glory of the true religion (Isa. 57: 15) ,.
and the wise men of Babylon consequently failed to establish
their claims when put to the test (Dan. 2: 10). Daniel and'
his companions depended upon that God who communes with.
men (verses 17, 18), and He did not fail them (verse 19)..
Daniel did not claim that the education which he had received
in Babylon enabled him to meet the king's demands (verse 30),
but acknowledged his dependence upon the God of heaven.
(verse 28). And after Daniel had interpreted the dream,.
Nebuchadnezzar recognized the superiority of the God of
heaven, just because He could commune with men as He had
communed with Daniel in revealing to him the dream and its.
interpretation. Verse 47.
•
Questions
1.
What warning did the Lord give to His people concern-
ing making alliances with worldly powers? Isa. 30: 1, 2.
2.
In spite of this warning, of whom did Ahaz seek help?
2 Chron. 28: 16.
3.
To whom did Hoshea turn for help? 2 Kings 17: 4.
4.
Because they rebelled against God, what experience-
came to Israel? Verses 6-18.
5.
In what calamity did Judah's course result? 1 Chron.
9: 1, A.
R.
V.
6.
How complete was the overthrow of Jerusalem?'
2 Chron. 36:17-19.
7.
In the face of these untoward circumstances,
what
assurance did God give through the prophet Daniel? See-
synopsis, paragraph 2.
8.
What was made known to Nebuchadnezzar in his dream
of the great image? Dan. 2: 28.
9.
What kingdom was represented by the head of gold?'
Verses 37, 38.
10.
How were the two succeeding kingdoms described?
Verse 39.
11.
What wag foretold concerning the next kingdom'
Verse 40.
12.
What feature of the fourth kingdom was emphasized?
Verse 41.
13.
What has been the answer of history to this prophecy?'
See synopsis, paragraph 2.
14.
To what is all history leading up? Dan. 2: 44.
15.
What was the teaching in Babylon concerning the union.
of divinity and humanity? Verse 11.
22
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
16.
What was the teaching in Jerusalem? Isa. 57: 15.
17.
What failure did the wise men of Babylon admit?
Dan. 2: 10.
18.
Upon whom did Daniel and his companions depend?
Verses 17, 18.
19.
How was their faith in God rewarded? Verse 19.
20.
What estimate did Daniel place upon his own wisdom?
Verse 30.
21.
To whom did he give all the credit? Verse 28.
22.
What led Nebuchadnezzar to acknowledge the superior-
ity of the God of heaven? Verse 47.
Notes
THE CHRONOLOGY OF THE FOUR KINGDOMS
1.
The sovereignty of the world passed from Babylon to Medo-Persia in
538 B. C. ; from Medo-Persia to Greece in 331 s. c.; from Greece to Rome in
168 B. C. ; and the division of the Roman empire into ten kingdoms was
fully accomplished in 476 A. D. Some of these kingdoms can be readily
recognized among the kingdoms of modern Europe ; and they will continue
until the God of heaven sets up His everlasting kingdom, according to the
prediction
,
made through the prophet Daniel.
A PREPARATORY EXPERIENCE
2.
The loyalty of Daniel and his companions to the God of heaven, as re-
vealed in the experience recorded in the first chapter of Daniel, prepared
them for being the recipients of the revelation of the secret or mystery of
the kingdom of God.
THE GOSPEL OF THE KINGDOM
3.
The purpose of the book of Daniel is to proclaim the gospel of the
kingdom of God, and its final triumph over all opposing powers. The
organized opposition of the god of this world has been directed toward
making Babylon the mistress of the world,—first ancient Babylon, and
then modern Babylon,
—
by
enforcing a false religion. In the interpretation
of Nebuchadnezzar's dream, only one verse is allotted to both Medo-Persia
and Greece, while much more attention is paid to the first and fourth king-
doms. The second and third kingdoms are mentioned simply in order to
make the historical and chronological connection between the two Babylons.
The real objective is the announcement of the fifth kingdom, the ever-
lasting kingdom of the God of heaven, as the outcome of the long continued
struggle for the control of the world.
ARE WE READY?
4.
"The coming kingdom.! This ought to be the all-absorbing topic with
the present generation. Reader, are you
ready
for the issue? He who enters
this kingdom enters it not merely for such a lifetime as men live in this
Present state, not to see it degenerate, not to
see
it overthrown by a suc-
ceeding and more powerful kingdom ; but he enters it to participate in all
its privileges and blessings, and to share its glories forever; for this king-
dom is not to 'be left to other people.' Again we ask you, Are you ready?
The terms of heirship are most liberal: 'If ye be Christ's, then are ye
Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.' Are you on terms of
friendship with Christ, the coming King? Do you love His character? Are
you trying to walk humbly in His footsteps, and obey His teachings ?"—
"Danie/ and
the Revelation," pages 79, 80, latest edition.
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
23
The great image of Nebuchadnezzar's dream, representing
as a whole the kingdom of man, and by the materials of which
it was composed, the course of empire. The kingdom of man
passes through five noted phases: Babylonian, the head of
gold ; Medo-Persian, breast and arms of silver ; Grecian, the
belly and thighs of brass ; imperial Rome, legs of iron ; and
growing democracy, causing the now broken condition of the
world, the feet of iron and clay, till the everlasting kingdom
of Christ, symbolized by the stone, is established upon their
ruins by the creative power of God.
•
24
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
Lesson 8 — The Mystery of the Kingdom
NOVEMBER 19, 1921
Daily Study Outline
1.
Study synopsis, paragraphs 4. Questions 7-14.
1-3, looking up texts.
5. Questions 15-21.
2.
Study synopsis, paragraphs 6. Questions 22-27.
4-6, looking up texts.
7. Review synopsis; study the
3.
Questions 1-6; note.
note.
Synopsis
•
SEED THOUGHT: "And without controversy great is the
mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh."
1 Tim. 3: 16.
•
"The story
.
of Bethlehem is an exhaustless theme. In it
is hidden 'the
(
depth of the riches both of the wisdom and
knowledge of God.
""The Desire of Ages," page 48.
"Our little world is the lesson book of the universe. God's
wonderful purpose of grace, the mystery of redeeming love,
is the theme into which 'angels desire to look.'
"—Id., pages
19, 20.
1.
That which was revealed to Daniel is called a mystery,
or secret. Dan. 2: 19. In revealing this sdcret, or mystery,
to Nebuchadnezzar, Daniel foretold not only the rise
-
and fall
of earthly kingdoms as the result of the long struggle for the
supremacy of the world, but also the outcome in the setting
up of the kingdom of God, and the characteristic difference
between that kingdom and the kingdoms wlfich preceded it.
Verse 44. They would go down before it in utter 'destruction,
but it would have no end.
2.
The kingdom foretold by the prophet Daniel is the
everlasting kingdom spoken of by the apostle Peter (2 Peter,
1: 10, 11), and the heavenly kingdom looked forward to by
the apostle Paul (2 Tim. 4: 18). It was this kingdom con-
cerning which our Lord taught so often in parables, the
mystery of which He declared was revealed to His disciples-
Mark 4: 11. It is also called the mystery of the gospel
(Eph. 6: 19), the mystery of God (Col. 2: 2), the mystery
of Christ (Eph. 3: 4), and the mystery of godliness (1 Tim.
3: 16, first clause). In experience, this mystery means that
union of divinity and humanity which is ministered to us
through an indwelling Christ. .Col. 1: 26, 27. This is the
kingdom of God "within you." Luke 17: 21..
3.
Christ is in His own person the eternal life manifested
in visible form (1 John 1: 2; 5: 20, last clause) ; and in His
twofold nature, He is Himself the mystery of godliness
(1 Tim. 3: 16, first two clauses). To know Him as the Sent
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
25
of God is eternal life. John 17: 3. Those who are joined
to Him by a living faith, begin eternal life here. 1 John 5: 13.
4.
Christ is not only the manifested life, but He is also
the manifested righteousness (1 Cor. 1: 30), as is clearly
shown by one of His titles (Jer. 23: 5, 6) ; and because of
the eternity of His being, His righteousness is everlasting
(Ps. 119: 142). But the very nature of the kingdom is right-
eousness (Rom. 14: 17) ; and righteousness is the basis of
its authority (Heb. 1:.8), and the foundation of its rule
(Ps. 89: 14, A. R. V.).
5.
By comparing Mark
9:
47
with Matt. 5: 8, it will be
seen that Jesus regarded "the kingdom of God" as equivalent
to "life"; and as the kingdom of God is fully identified
with the Son of God, an eternal kingdom is only one form of
the manifestation of the eternal life of the King, Jesus Christ.
The subjects of the kingdom who are in union with Him,
and who reveal their loyalty by doing His will as expressed
in His law (Ps. 40: 8), will share in His nature (2 Teter
1: 4), and abide forever (1 John 2:17).
6.
In his ability to make known to Nebuchadnezzar his
dream and its.interpretation, Daniel demonstrated the reality
of that personal fellowship with God which is the expression
of the mystery of godliness, and proclaimed in Babylon that
eternal life and righteousness which distinguished the kinx-
dom of God from any earthly kingdom, and which constitute
the explanation of its eternal duration.
Questions
1.
What was revealed to Daniel in a vision? Dan. 2: 19.
2.
In revealing this secret, on mystery, to Nebuchadnez-
zar, what three things did Daniel make known? Verse 44:
3.
What does the apostle Peter call the same kingdom of
which Daniel spoke? 2 Peter 1: 10, 11.
4.
What does the apostle Paul call it? 2 Tim. 4: 18.
5.
What does Jesus call the secret, or mystery, revealed
to Daniel? Mark 4: 11.
6.
How is it related to the gospel? Eph.
7.
How is it related to God the Father? Col. 2: 2.
8.
How is it related to Christ the Son? Eph. 3: 4.
9.
How is it related to Christian experience? 1 Tim. 3: 16,
first clause.
10.
When wrought out in experience, what does it mean?
Col. 1: 26, 27.
11.
How is this expressed in terms of the kingdom?
Luke 17: 21.
12.
What is manifested in a visible form in Christ?
1 John 1: 2; 5: 20, last clause.
26
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
13. What is He in His twofold nature? 1 Tim. 3: 16,• first
two clauses.
14. What does knowing Him involve? John 17: 3:
15. What is the experience of those who are joined to Him
by a living faith?' 1 John 5: 13.
16. What is the relation between Christ and righteousness?
1 Cor. 1:30.
17. What title, applied to Him, shows this? Jer. 23: 5, 6.
18. How is the duration of this righteousness defined?
Ps. 119: 142.
19. What is the nature of the kingdom of God? Rom. 14: 17.
20. What is the basis of the authority of this kingdom?
Heb. 1: 8.
21. What constitutes its foundation? Ps. 89: 14, A. R. V.
22. How does it appear that Jesus regarded "the kingdom,
of God" as equivalent to "life"? Compare Mark 9: 47 with
Matt. 5: 8.
23. What therefore is an eternal kingdom? See synopsis,
paragraph 5.
24. In what will those share who are in union with Christ?
2 Peter 1: 4.
•
25. How long will they abide? 1 John 2: 17.
26. In being able to make known that secret, or mystery,
to Nebuchadnezzar, what did Daniel demonstrate? See
synopsis, paragraph 6.
27. What did he proclaim in Babylon? Same paragraph.
Note
CHRIST THE SECRET OF THE OLD TESTAMENT
"In Christ the Eternal lodged His purpose and laid His plans for the
world. It is His fullness that the fullness of the times dispenses. The Old
Testament, the reservoir of previous revelation, had Him for its close-kept
secret, 'held in silence through eternal times.' Rom. 16: 25-27. The drift
of its prophecies, the focus of its converging lights, the veiled magnet to-
wards which its spiritual indications pointed, was 'Christ.' He 'was the
spiritual rock that followed' Israel in its wanderings, from whose springs
the people drank, as it answered to the touch of one and now another of the
holy men of old. The revelation of Jesus Christ gives unity, substance, and
meaning to the history of Israel, which is otherwise a pathway without
goal, a problem without solution. Priest and prophet, law and sacrifice;
the kingly Son of David, and the suffering Servant of Jehovah ; the
Seed
of the woman, with bruised foot bruising the serpent's head ; the Lord whom
His people seek, suddenly coming to His temple the Stone hewn from the
mountains without hands, that grows till it fills the earth—the manifold
representations of Israel's
ideal, center
in the Lord Jesus Christ. The lines
of the great figure drawn on the canvas of prophecy—disconnected as they
seemed, and without a plan, .
. are filled out and drawn into shape and
take life and substance in Him."—"The
Expositor's Bible" (Epheeians),
pages 157, 158.
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
27
.
Lesson 9 — A Converting Message to
Nebuchadnezzar
NOVEMBER 26, 1921
Daily Study Outline
1.
Study synopsis, paragraphs 4. Questions 6-10.
1, 2, looking up texts.
5. Questions 11-16; note 2.
2.
Study synopsis, paragraphs 6. Questions 17-23; note 3.
3, 4, looking up teats.
7. Review
,
synopsis; study the
, 3. Questions 1-5; note 1.
m
notes.
Synopsis
SEED THOUGHT : "Under the rebuke of Him who is King of
kings and Lord of lords, Nebuchadnezzar had learned at last
the lesson which all rulers need to learn,—that true greatness
consists in true goodness."—"Prophets
and Kings," page 521.
1.
In his interpretation of the dream of Nebuchadnezzar,
the prophet Daniel declared that Babylon would be succeeded
by three other universal kingdoms, but that the God of heaven
would then set up His everlasting kingdom. Dan. 2: 36-44.
This fifth kingdom would fill "the whole earth." Verse 35.
At first, Nebuchadnezzar seemed to accept this outline of the
future as authoritative (verse 47), and to concede the cor-
rectness of Isaiah's prophecy (Isa. 13: 19) ; but during the
next twenty years, the greatness of Babylon increased to
such an extent that he evidently concluded that his own king-
dom would be everlasting; and he expressed his view of world
history by setting up an image all of gold (Dan. 3: 1), in
contrast with the image of his dream, whose head only was of
gold (Dan. 2: 32).
2.
The representatives of a world dominion were sum-
moned to the dedication of this image (Dan. 3: 2), and were
commanded to acknowledge the supremacy of Babylon by
falling down before the image (verses 4, 5). To refuse to do
so was to invite death. Verse 6. Three Jewish young men
declined to do homage to this image. Verse
12. When
a
second opportunity to obey the decree was given them, they
remained loyal to the God of heaven (verses 16-18), and the
threatened punishment was inflicted upon them (verse 21).
But God miraculously delivered them (verses 24-27), and
Nebuchadnezzar recognized their faithfulness to their God
(verse 28) as the great deliverer (verse 29). This experience
taught that although the God of heaven had made Nebuchad-
nezzar a universal king (Dan. 2: 37, 38), God was still above
him as ruler of the world (Ps. 103: 19), to whom alone
worship was due (Deut. 6: 13).
28
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
3.
But a further experience was necessary in order to
enforce this lesson; for about twenty years later, we find
Nebuchadnezzar boasting of "great Babylon" and glorifying
himself. Dan. 4: 29, 30. Daniel's interpretation of the dream
of the lofty tree •was then fulfilled upon him (verses 31-33),
which led him personally to acknowledge the true God (verse
34), and to worship Him who had conquered his pride
(verse 37).
4.
Thus the gospel of the kingdom of God was preached in
Babylon in three messages, which resulted in the conversion
of the king of Babylon, and in a world-wide proclamation
concerning the everlasting kingdom of God. Verses 1-3.
Questions
1. In his interpretation of the dream of the great image,
what facts did Daniel set forth? Dan. 2: 36-44.
' 2. How extensive did he say the fifth kingdom would be?
Verse 35.
3.
How did Nebuchadnezzar seem to regard this inter-
pretation? Verse 47.
4.
With what prophecy was he thus in harmony? Isa.
13: 19.
5.
What seemed to change his mind? See synopsis,
paragraph 1.
6.
How did he express his new view of world supremacy?
Dan. 3: 1.
7.
With what was this in direct contrast? Dan. 2: 32.
8.
Who were summoned to the dedication of this image?
Dan. 3: 2.
9.
How were they required to express their acceptance of.
Nebuchadnezzar's views? Verses 4, 5.
10.
What would their refusal mean? Verse 6.
11.
Who declined to worship the image? Verse 12.
12.
What reply did they make when urged to recant?
Verses 16-18.
13.
What was then done to them? Verse 21.
14.
What deliverance was wrought in their behalf? Verses
24-27.
15.
How did Nebuchadnezzar recognize their faithfulness?
;Verse 28.
16.
In what declaration did he acknowledge the power of
the God of heaven? Verse 29.
17.
What were the lessons taught by this experience?
Dan. 2: 37, 38; Ps. 103: 19; Deut. 6: 13.
18.
What shows that Nebuchadnezzar later disregarded
these lessons? Dan. 4: 29, 30.
19.
What prediction made by Daniel was
.
then fulfilled?
Verses 31-33.
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
29
20.
What effect did this have upon the king? Verse 34. •
21.
What confession witnessed to his conversion? Verse 37.
22.
What was preached in Babylon, according to the rec-
ord in the second, third, and fourth chapters of the book of
Daniel? See synopsis, paragraph 4.
23.
What world-wide proclamation was made as a result?.
Dan. 4: 1-3.
Notes
NEBUCHADNEZZAR'S MISINTERPRETATION OF HIS DREAM
1.
"The symbolic representation by which God had revealed to king and
people His purpose for the nations of earth, was now to be made to serve
for the glorification of human power. Daniel's interpretation was to be
rejected and forgotten ; truth was to be misinterpreted and misapplied. The
symbol designed of Heaven to unfold to the minds of men important events
of the future, was to be used to hinder the spread of the knowledge that
God desired the world to receive,. Thus through the devisings of ambitious
men, Satan was seeking to thwitit the divine purpose for the human
race."
—"Prophets and Kings," page 505.
THE LESSONS OF THE DELIVERANCE
2.
"By the deliverance of His faithful servants, the Lord declared that He
takes His stand with the oppressed, and rebukes all earthly powers that
rebel against the authority of Heaven. . .
.
"Important are the lessons to be learned from the experience of the He-
brew youth on the plain of Dura. In this our day, many of God's servants,
though innocent of wrongdoing, will be given over to suffer humiliation and
abuse at the hands of those who, inspired by Satan, are filled with envy and
religious bigotry. Especially will the wrath of man be aroused against those
who hallow the Sabbath of the fourth commandment; and at last a uni-
versal decree will denounce these as deserving of death. The season of distress
before God's people will call for a faith that will not falter. His children
must make it manifest that He is the only object of their worship, and that
no consideration, not even that of life itself, can induce them to make the
least concession to false worship."—Id.,
pages 511, 512.
NEBUCHADNEZZAR'S CONVERSION
3.
"The once proud monarch [Nebuchadnezzar] had become a humble
child of God ; the tyrannical, overbearing ruler, a wise and compassionate
king. He who had defied and blasphemed the od of heaven, now acknowl-
edged the power of the Most High, and earnestly sought to promote the fear
of Jehovah and the happiness of His subjects. . . . God's purpose that the
greatest kingdom in the world 'should show forth His praise, was now ful-
filled. This public proclamation, in which Nebuchadnezzar acknowledged
the mercy and goodness and authority of God, was the last act of his life
recorded
in
sacred history."—Id.,
page 521.
Sabbath School Goals
Every Church Member a Sabbath School Member
Every Member Striving to Be Perfect in Attendance
Every Member Studying the Lesson Daily
Every Member Giving His Share of the Money That
Must Go to Missions
30
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
Lesson 10—Babylon's Fall and Its Cause
DECEMBER
3, 1921
Daily Study Outline
1.
Study synopsis, paragraphs 4. Questions 8-13.
1, 2, looking up texts.
5. Questions 14-19.
2.
Study synopsis, paragraphs 6. Questions 20-24.
3, 4, looking up texts.
7. Review synopsis; study the
3.
Questions 1-7; note.
note.
Synopsis
SEED THOUGHT:
"In that last night of mad folly, Bel-
shazzar and his lords had filled up the measure of their guilt
and the guilt of the Chaldean kingdom. No longer could God's
restraining 'hand ward off the irspending
evil."—"Prophets
and Kings," page 530.
1.
The successors of Nebuchadnezzar in the kingdom of
Babylon disregarded the lessons which he had learned, and
oppressed the people of God who were in captivity, according
to the prophecy of Isaiah. Isa. 47: 6. Their defiance of the
God of heaven came to a climax in the time of Belshazzar
when he openly insulted Him by using the sacred vessels
from the temple in 'Jerusalem at an idolatrous feast. Dan.
5: 1-4. But while the feast was at its height, the hand of
an unseen being traced some words upon the wall of the
palace (verse 5), which greatly terrified the king of Babylon
(verse 6), and led him to call upon the wise men of Babylon
to read the writing to him (verse 7). Their failure' and the
king's distress of mind attracted the attention of the queen,
who told him of Daniel, and his ability to deal with such mat-
ters, as shown in the reign of Nebuchadnezzar. Verses 10-12.
2.
Although nearly seventy years had passed since Daniel
had demonstrated his fellowship with God by the revelation
made to him, yet the memory of that remarkable experience
still lived (verses 13, 14), and he was asked to read the
writing on the wall and to make known its interpretation
(verse 16). Daniel first reminded Belshazzar that the great-
ness of Babylon, achieved by Nebuchadnezzar, was wholly
due to the Most High God (verses 18, 19), and that on ac-
count of his pride of heart, Nebuchadnezzar lost for a time
his throne and his glory (verse 20), in order that he might
learn to recognize the Most High God as over all earthly
kingdoms (verse 21).
3.
Belshazzar, as Daniel affirmed, refused to be governed
by the principles accepted by Nebuchadnezzar (verse 22), but
exalted himself against the Lord of heaven, and gave to idols
the glory due to God (verse 23). Then three disconnected
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
31
words were inscribed on the wall (verse 25), which Daniel
interpreted into three complete sentences. The first announced
the overthrow of the kingdom of Babylon (verse 26), the
second was a personal estimate of the character of Belshazzar
(verse 27), and the third designated his successors in the
world supremacy (verse 28). On that very night, the king-
dom of Babylon and her king both ceased to be. Verses 30, 31.
4. The three messages to Babylon proclaimed God as the
supreme ruler and the only object of worship. This is the
everlasting gospel which is being preached to Babylon to-day
(Rev. 14: 6, 7), the gospel of God's righteousness, accepted
by believing (Rom. 1: 16, 17). The distinguishing character-
istic of Babylon was pride (Jer. 50: 29-32), which is the
evidence of the lack of that righteousness which is recered
as a gift from God by faith (Hab. 2: 4). It was the re-
jection of the gospel of the kingdom of God, the threefold
message of righteousness by faith, which caused the fall of
Babylon. Dan. 5: 22-24.
Questions
1.
How did the successors of Nebuchadnezzar in the
kingdom of Babylon show that they disregarded the lessons
taught to Nebuchadnezzar? Isa. 47: 6.
2.
In what studied insult did their defiance of God come
to its climax? Dan. 5: 1-4.
3.
What occurred while the feast was in progress?
Verse 5.
4.
How did this affect the king? Verse 6.
5.
Of whom did he seek the interpretation of this writing?
Verse 7.
6.
In what way did Belshazzar learn of Daniel and his
ability to reveal hidden things? Verses 10-12.
7.
What remarkable experience was still remembered?
Verses 13, 14.
8.
What request was made of Daniel? • Verse 16.
9.
Of what did Daniel first remind BelshazZar? Verses
18, 19.
10.
What was the cause of the judgment upon Nebuchad-
nezzar? Verse 20.
11.
For what purpose was this judgment sent upon him?
Verse 21.
12.
What shows that Belshazzar willfully refused the les-
son taught to Nebuchadnezzar? Verse 22.
13.
In what conduct did this refusal show itself? Verse 23.
14.
What followed this open defiance of God? .Verses 24, 25.
15.
What did the first word signify concerning the king-
dom of Babylon? Verse 26.
32
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
16.
What did the second word signify concerning Bel-
shazzar? Verse 27.
17.
What did the third word signify concerning his suc-
cessors in the world supremacy? Verse 28.
18.
What events fulfilled Daniel's predictions? Verses
30, 31.
19.
What was proclaimed in the three messages to Baby-
lon? See synopsis, paragraph 4.
20.
In fulfillment of what prophecy is the same gospel being
preached to Babylon now? Rev. 14: 6, 7.
21.
How is this gospel defined? Rom. 1: 16, 17.
22.
What is the distinguishing characteristic of Babylon?
Jer. 50: 29-32.
2.
Of what is pride the evidence? Hab. 2: 4.
24. What caused the fall of Babylon? Dan. 5: 22-24.
Note
THE PHILOSOPHY OF HISTORY
"Every nation that has come upon the stage of action has been permitted
to occupy its place on the earth, that the fact might be determined whether
it would fulfill the purposes of the Watcher and the Holy One. Prophecy
has traced the rise and progress of the world's great empires,—Babylon,
Medo-Persia, Greece, and Rome. With each of these, as with the nations of
less power, history has repeated itself. Each has had its period of test ;
each has failed, its glory faded, its power departed.. While nations have re-
jected God's principles, and in this rejection have wrought their own ruin,
yet a divine, overruling purpose has manifestly been at work throughout
the ages. .
.
"The history of nations speaks to us to-day. To every nation and to
every individual God has assigned a place in His great plan: To-day men
and nations are being tested by the plummet in the hand of Him who makes
no mistake. All are by their own choice deciding_their destiny, and God is
overruling all for the accomplishment of His purposes."—"Prophets
and
Kings," pages 535, 536.
The system of reporting adopted by the Sabbath
School Department gives opportunity to note the in-
creases in important items of Sabbath school activities.
We rejoice at the numerous evidences of progress which
they reveal.
Number of Sabbath schools
4,966
Membership
161,985
Members present every Sabbath
14,795
Members having perfect record in attend-
ance and daily study
7,175
Members completing perfect yearly record
641
42
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
can no longer be delayed."—"Daniel
and the Revelation," pages 709,
710,
latest edition.
THE FINAL WARNING
3. "Of Babylon, at the time brought to view in this prophecy, it is de-
clared, 'Her sins have reached unto heaven, and God bath remembered her
iniquities.' She has filled up the measure of her guilt, and destruction is
about to fall upon her. But God still has a people in Babylon ; and before
the visitation of His judgments, these faithful ones must be called out, that
they 'partake not of her sins, and receive not of her plagues.' Hence the
movement symbolized by the angel coming down from heaven, lightening
the earth with his glory, and crying mightily with a strong voice, announc-
ing the sins of Babylon. In connection with his message the call is heard,
'Come out of her, My people.' These announcements, uniting with the third
angel's message, constitute the final warning to be given to,
the inhabitants
of the earth."—"The
Great Controversy,"
page
604.
‘Lesson 13— Christ's Teaching Concerning
the Kingdom
DECEMBER 24, 1921
Daily Study Outline
1.
Study synopsis, paragraphs
4. Questions
7-14;
note
2.
1-4, looking up texts.
5. Questions
15-19;
note
3.
2. Study synopsis, paragraphs
6. Questions
20-24;
note
4.
5-9, looking up texts.
7. Review the synopsis; study
3.
Questions 1-6; note 1.
the notes.
Synopsis
SEED THOUGHT: "In His parable teaching Christ linked
divine truth with common things and incidents."—"Christ's
Object Lessons," Preface, page
7.
1.
Much of the instruction which Christ imparted con-
cerning the kingdom is found in His parables. Some of these
will be considered in this lesson.
2.
A notable group of parables concerning the kingdom
is found in the thirteenth chapter of Matthew, which opens
with the parable of the sower. The special features here'
emphasized are these: the kingdom is to be established by
the preaching of the word of God (Matt. 13: 19, first clause;
Luke 8: 11), and this preaching will be attended by varying
results. The Lord Himself sows the seed, but some permit
the enemy to prevent it from taking root. Matt. 13: 19, latter
part. Some appear to receive the word joyfully, but are
easily overcome by the trials which beset the Christian path-
way. Verses 20, 21. In the case of others, their minds are
too much absorbed with the things of this world, so that no
fruit is borne. Verse 22. Those who fully accept the gospel
message and really understand it, give proof of this by fruit-
bearing, although in different degrees. Verse 23. Whatever
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
43
degree of failure there may be, is due to the hearer, and not
to the word preached.
3.
In the next parable, that of the wheat and the tares,
the same principle of seed-sowing is presented, but the new
feature is the work of the enemy and how to deal with it.
The good seed was sown (verse 24), the word of the kingdom
was proclaimed; but the enemy adopted the same method
in propagating doubt and falsehood (verse 25). The law
of reproduction was not suspended in the case of the tares.
Verse 26. Drastic measures in dealing with the evil might
work disastrously for the good. Verses 28, 29. During this
time of probation, the perversion of right principles must
be permitted as a necessary consequence of freedom of the
will; but the rewards and the punishments of the Judgment
are determined in this life. Verse 30. Satan's work is to
apply to wrong uses the principles and the power of the
kingdom of God. Compare verses 36-42.
4.
The vitality of the truths of the kingdom which enables
it to develop from the smallest beginning is emphasized in
the parable of the mustard seed. Verses 31, 32.
5.
The pervasive power of the principles of the kingdom
of God, when a field of opportunity is given them, is set
forth in the parable of the leaven hidden in the meal.
Verse 33.
6.
The priceless value of the kingdom, and the absolute
necessity of surrendering all worldly aims and ambitions
in order to gain it, are the lessons taught in the parables
of the treasure hidden in the field and the pearl of great
price. Verses 44-46. We cannot hold the world in one hand
and the kingdom of heaven in the other. Christ must be
all to us, or He is nothing.
7.
That the end of the gospel age will bring the irrevocable
separation between the righteous and the wicked, and that
the triumph of righteousness in the kingdom of. God will mean
the absolute destruction of evil by extinction of those who
have cherished sin and refused the gift of righteousness, is
the teaching of the last parable in this chapter. Verses 47-50.
8.
In another parable, Christ compared the kingdom of
God to the growth of the seed cast upon the earth, and set
forth the inherent power of the word of the kingdom as
revealed in growth and fruitage. Mark 4: 26-28.
9.
"With many such parables" Jesus spoke to the people;
but these are sufficient to teach the leading characteristics
of the kingdom of God in its working among men.
Questions
1. In what form did Christ impart much of His instruction
concerning the kingdom of God? See synopsis, paragraph 1.
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
45
revealed through the _earthly; God was made manifest in the likeness of
men. So it was in Christ's teaching ; the unknown was illustrated by the
known; divine truths by earthly things with which the people were most
familiar."--"Christ's
Object Lessons," page 17.
THE INWARD CHANGE
2.
"As the leaven, when mingled with the meal, works from within out-
ward, so it is by the renewing of the heart that the grace of God works to
transform the life. No mere external change is sufficient to bring us into
harmony with God. There are many who try to reform by correcting this or
that bad habit, and they hope in this way to become Christians, but they are
beginning in the wrong place. Our first work is with the heart."—Id., page
97.
A DOUBLE SIGNIFICANCE
3.
"The parable of the merchantman seeking goodly pearls has a double
significance: it applies not only to men as seeking the kingdom of heaven,
but to Christ as seeking His lost inheritance."—Id.,
page 118.
No
PROBATION AFTER DEATH
4.
"These parables [of the tares and the net] teach that there is to be
no probation after the Judgment. When the work of the gospel is completed,
there immediately follows the separation between the good and the evil, and
the destiny of each class is forever fixed."—Id.,
page 123.
Prepare Now for the
Thirteenth Sabbath Offering
Central and West China
December
31, 1921
Lesson
14
—
The Great Consummation
DECEMBER
31, 1921
Daily Study Outline
1.
Study synopsis, paragraphs 4. Questions 9-16; note.
1-4, looking up texts.
5. Questions 17-22.
2.
Study synopsis, paragraphs 6. Questions 23-27.
5-7, looking up tests. '
7. Review synopsis; study the
3.
Questions 1-8.
note.
Synopsis
•
SEED THOUGHT: "The hour has come when Christ occupies
His rightful position, and is glorified above principalities and
46
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
powers and every name that is named."—"The
Great Con-
troversy," page 671.
1.
All the prophets bore witness to Christ (Acts 10: 43),
testifying concerning His sufferings and the glories that
should follow them (1 Peter 1: 10, 11). The prophecies con-
cerning His sufferings were fulfilled at the time of the first
advent (1 Peter 3: 18), and the prophecies concerning the
glories that should follow them will be fulfilled at the second
advent (Matt. 25: 31; Luke 24: 26).
2.
It is the work of Christ to restore (Isa. 49: 6) ; and the
disciples rightly understood that this restoration extended
to the kingdom, although they were uncertain as to the time
(Acts 1: 6). The good news concerning the restoration of
the kingdom must be announced throughout the world (Matt.
24: 14), and this glorious consummation will be fully realized
when Christ shall return from heaven to earth (Acts 3: 20,
21; Matt. 25: 31).
3.
Christ's desire was that "His own" should be with Him
in glory (John 17: 24) ; and just before His departure from
earth to heaven, He promised His disciples that He would
return for them (John 14: 3). This promise that He would
come again was repeated to them at the time of the ascension
(Acts 1: 11), and that coming is definitely mentioned as His
second appearance (Heb. 9: 28).
4.
Those who have received Christ as the Lord of their
lives (John 20: 28), and have become subjects of His kingdom
(Col. 1: 12, 13), even though they have fallen asleep, will be
remembered in the day of triumph when Jesus returns to
earth (1 Thess. 4: 13, 14). The righteous living will have
no advantage over them in that day (verse 15), for the living
and "the dead in Christ" will meet their Lord at the same
time (verses 16, 17). Thus will the subjects of the kingdom
enter upon the joy of their Lord. Matt. 25: 21.
5.
Christ taught His disciples and us to pray for the
coming of the kingdom (Matt. 6: 10) ; He Himself preached
the gospel of the kingdom (Matt. 9: 35) ; the thief on the
cross recognized the relation between the kingdom and His
coming (Luke 23: 42), as did also the apostle Paul (2 Tim.
4: 1) ; and for this appearing we are to be looking (Titus
2: 13).
6.
The definite time of the great consummation has not
been revealed (Matt. 24: 36) ; but the fulfillment of the
signs foretold by Christ Himself will declare its nearness
(verses 33, 34), and the mocking of those who believe in the
unchanging order of nature will itself , be an indication of
"the last days" (2 Peter 3: 3, 4).
7.
We are living in the time of the sounding of the seventh
angel, when the mystery of God (the gospel) is to be finished
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
47
(Rev. 10: 7), and the kingdom is given to Christ (Rev. 11: 15)
and to those who are "in Christ." Then God will be glorified
in the exaltation of His Son as Lord of all. Phil. 2: 9-11.
Questions
1.
To whom did all the prophets bear witness? Acts
10: 43.
2.
Concerning what did they testify? 1 Peter 1: 10, 11.
3.
When were the prophecies concerning Christ's suf-
ferings fulfilled? 1 Peter 3: 18.
4.
When will the prophecies concerning the glories be
fulfilled? Matt. 25: 31; Luke 24: 26.
5.
What is the work of Christ? Isa. 49: 6.
6.
What does this restoration include? Acts 1: 6.
7.
What must be announced throughout the world?
Matt. 24: 14.
8.
When will this glorious consummation be realized?
Acts 3: 20, 21; Matt. 25: 31.
9.
What was Christ's desire concerning "His own"? John
17: 24.
10.
What promise did He make to His disciples? John
14: 3.
11.
When was this promise repeated? Acts 1: 11.
12.
How is it again definitely mentioned? Heb. 9: 28.
13.
Who will be remembered when Jesus returns to this
earth? John 20: 28; Col. 1: 12, 13; 1 Thess. 4: 13, 14.
14.
What comforting assurance is given to those who fall
asleep? 1 Thess. 4: 15.
15.
What will be the order of events at that time?
Verses 16, 17.
16.
Upon what will the subjects of the kingdom then enter?
Matt. 25: 21.
. 17. For what did our Lord teach us to pray? Matt. 6: 10.
18.
What did He preach to the people? Matt. 9: 35.
19.
What was recognized by the thief on the cross? Luke
23: 42.
20.
What two things were closely connected by° the apostle
Paul? 2 Tim. 4: 1.
21.
For what are we to be looking? Titus 2: 13.
22.
What has not been revealed to us? Matt. 24: 36.
23.
What declares the nearness of the coming of the king-
dom? Verses 33, 34.
24.
What will be an indication of "the last days"? 2 Peter
3: 3, 4.
25.
What will be finished under the sounding of the seventh
angel? Rev. 10: 7.
48
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
26.
To whom will the kingdom theh be given? Rev. 11: 15.
27.
In what way will God then be glorified? Phil. 2: 9-11.
Note
THE KINGDOM COME
"
'I saw a new heaven and a new earth ; for the first heaven and the first
earth were passed away.' The fire that consumes the wicked purifies the
earth. Every trace of the curse is swept away. No eternally burning hell
will keep before the ransomed the fearful consequences of sin.
"One reminder alone remains: our Redeemer will ever bear the marks of
His crucifixion. Upon His wounded head, upon His side, His hands and
feet, are the only traces of the cruel work that sin has wrought. Says the
prophet, beholding Christ in His glory, 'He had bright beams coming out
of His side; and there was the hiding of His power.' That pierced side
whence flowed the crimson stream that reconciled man to God,—there is the
Saviour's glory, there 'the hiding of His power.' Mighty to save,' through
the sacrifice of redemption, He was therefore strong to execute justice upon
them that despised God's mercy. And the tokens of His humiliation are
His highest honor; through the eternal
ages
the wounds of Calvary will
show forth His praise, and declare His power.
"'O Tower of the flock, the stronghold of the daughter of Zion, unto Thee
shall it come, even the first dominion.' The time has come, to which holy
men have looked with longing since the flaming sword barred the first pair
from Eden,—the time for 'the redemption of the purchased possession.'
The earth originally given to man as his kingdom, betrayed by him into the
hands of Satan, and so long held by the mighty foe, has been brought back
by the great plan of redemption. All that was lost by sin has been restored.
'Thus saith the Lord . . . that formed the earth and made it; He hath
established it, He created it not in vain, He formed it to be inhabited.' God's
original purpose in the creation of the earth is fulfilled as it is made the
eternal abode of the redeemed. 'The righteous shall inherit the land, and
dwell therein forever.'
"—"The Great Controversy," pages 673, 674.
Lessons for the First Quarter of 1922
LissoN ToPic: With the Great Teacher
LESSON HELPS:
"The Desire of Ages," "Thoughts from
the Mount of Blessing"
To enjoy the full benefit of the lesson study, you
should have the
lesson helps.
If they are not now in
your library, order them from your tract society office.
"Desire," trade edition, limp leather, $3.00; cloth, $2.00.
"Mount of Blessing," limp leather, $2.00; cloth, $1.25.
Postpaid.